Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 25: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the amount by which the capital budget for her Department has been reduced under the revised capital programme 2010 to 2016; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34730/10]

Michael D'Arcy (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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Question 42: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the amount the capital budget for health has been reduced by under the revised capital programme 2010 to 2016; the planned projects that will be delivered within the next six years; the planned projects that will now not be delivered within the next six years; if she will publish a full list of capital projects and the revised timeframes for delivery; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34732/10]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Independent)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 25 and 42 together.

The Public Capital Programme 2010 - 2016 as announced by Government in July provides a total of €2,891 million over the period 2010 -2016 for the Health group of Votes. This represents an increase of approximately €35m, on the previously notified capital envelope for the period to 2013. It also confirms that the annual capital funding allocation of €400m for health will continue to 2016. The Health Service Executive's capital plan currently covers the five year period 2010 - 2014. The Executive has published on its website details of the projects which it intends to deliver within this plan. The Executive, in conjunction with my Department, is also progressing the provision of infrastructure through reinvestment of the sale proceeds of asset disposals and leasing arrangements and is also exploring alternative means of financing investment. I understand that the Executive will submit before year end its updated capital investment programme for the next rolling five year period – to 2015.

With regard to my Department's Vote, capital funding will continue to be provided for health research through the Health Research Board. This funding will include support for the joint delivery with the Wellcome Trust and others of clinical research facilities at St James's Hospital and Galway University Hospital. Capital funding will also be provided to support the requirements of directly funded agencies under the aegis of my Department.

In relation to the Office of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, there has been considerable investment in childcare places in recent years primarily through the capital grant aiding of construction and refurbishment of childcare facilities. This investment has greatly improved the availability and quality of childcare options. Capital funding will continue to be provided to meet existing capital commitments including those under the Young People's Facilities and Services Fund.